New Walmart in works in North Augusta

A second Walmart Supercenter will be coming to North Augusta if plans progress, with a new store set located near the Exit 5 interchange on I-20.

According to Scott Sterling, North Augusta's director of Planning and Economic Development, Walmart has not submitted a formal application to begin construction, but has been in talks with the City to move the project forward.

He said the company is eyeing the Sweetwater Development Site, a 52-acre spot located across from Sonic on Edgefield Road that also could incorporate shop spaces, restaurants and other businesses.

"It's exciting. If this gets constructed, it shows an interest in commercial development in the city," Sterling said. "I'd love to see it happen."

He added that the new location would likely "overlap" and pull customers from North Augusta's other Walmart store, located on Knox Avenue, but was certain the company already was considered that possibility.

North Augusta City Administrator Todd Glover said the new store would benefit a part of the community that's "underserved" when it comes to retail."

As a matter of convenience, it's a huge impact," Glover said. "I think it would serve a good niche."

He noted that Walmart's success shows that it has the process of selecting store locations "down to a science," adding the company's decision also speaks well to the economy of North Augusta.

"It'll bring people into the city to shop, which is always good," he said.

He hopes the new store would serve people north of the I-20 Exit 5 location, including Merriwether and Trenton residents.